Coach Touring Issue 2 2023

Comment

“Vibrant…Wonderful”…just some of the comments amongst the wealth of positive feedback received for Excursions™ 2023 which took place on 28th January 2023 at Twickenham Stadium

Followed by the CTA conference and workshop held in Belfast in February

The Belfast event attracted over 180 delegates and hosted 800 meetings between suppliers and buyers from the coach tourism industry the confidence was evident with deals signed on the day.

The CTA’s next event, Spring Networking & AGM, takes place in Llandudno, North Wales, on 21-22 May. Visit www coachtourismassociation co uk to find out more

And finally, a great couple of days at the NEC which hosted the British Travel & Tourism Show

It’s clear were well on track to reach and hopefully surpass the 2019 figures which saw the sector contributing £14 billion to the UK economy,

On a personal note I’m off to spend 5 days in Dartmouth Devon, Dartmouth and the surrounding areas were buzzing, the restaurants and bars were packed, the weather was fantastic for early spring when I visited slightly earlier in 2022, hopefully it will be the same again this year, I shall let you know. In this issue we have some great features , including Tour Operators, Science and Exploration and we have a section dedicated to venues and attractions who love nothing more than to see a smiling, happy coach party arrive

Happy Travelling Nigel

Front Cover Picture Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland The Farne Island are visible on the horizon

shutterstock Steve Heap

THE INAUGURAL LONDON FOR GROUPS AWARDS

Taking to the stage, co-hosts Dan Savage of London For Groups, and TV presenter, chef & photographer Jonathan Phang, presented the 19 awards, honouring the best that the capitol has to offer!

all winners can be found at www LondonForGroups com

The inaugural LONDON FOR GROUPS AWARDS took place on Tuesday 21 February at a swanky central London venue On arrival, guests were treated to a bubbles reception and the chance

to ‘feel like a celeb’ on the red (well VERY pink) carpet! An open bar, and huge supply of stunning Smith & Wollesnky canapés were served to guests as they networked, eagerly awaiting the main event

Decided by the combination of a public vote put to London For Groups readers - and a panel of expert judges, the big winners on the night were Buckingham Palace for Best Historic Venue, Swingers West End for Best Dining Experience, Dunwood Travel for Best Tour Operator, TINA: The Tina Turner Musical for Best West End Musical and David Steele of AGTO for the Ambassador Cruise Line Award of Recognition Details on

Dan Savage of London For Groups said ‘What a huge success! The feedback has been incredible It was so amazing to have everyone there together, having such a great time and celebrating each other. I heard that there were quite a few hangovers the following morning We will 100% be returning next year’

Up next for London For Groups is the LFG Live event at The Actors Church on Covent Garden Piazza on Tuesday 5 September – full details at

www LondonForGroups com

Hamnet to transfer to the West End's Garrick Theatre this Autumn

Hamnet will be transferring directly to London’s Garrick Theatre this autumn for a limited 14-week season from 30 September

Selling out ahead of its world premiere at the newly restored Swan Theatre in Stratford-uponAvon this April, this new play is based on Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel Adapted by award-winning playwright Lolita Chakrabarti (Life of Pi, Red Velvet,

Hymn) Hamnet pulls back a curtain on the story of the greatest writer in the English language and the woman who was the constant presence and purpose of his life

Directed by Acting RSC Artistic Director Erica Whyman, with set design by Tom Piper, Lighting by Prema Mehta, Music by Oğuz Kaplangi, Sound by Xana, Movement by Ayse Tashkiran, Fights by Kate Waters and Casting

by Amy Ball CDG, Hamnet is a love letter to passion, birth, grief and the magic of nature

Priority booking opens from 28 March via the RSC website, join today from £20 to be among the first to book for this limited season

www.rsc.org.uk

thegarricktheat re co uk

Discover Frameless, London's first permanent digital immersive arts experience

Featuring 40 artworks by 28 iconic artists across 30,000 sq ft Explore four galleries: Beyond Reality, Art of Abstraction, Color in Motion, and The World Around Us

Enjoy transformative experiences like stepping into paintings and interacting with art. Frameless showcases connections between

artists from different centuries using color, technique, and subject matter. QR codes provide artwork info and gallery expectations. Special group rates are available, along with an on-site café bar

Visit w ww frameless com for m ore informat ion and prepa re for a unique, imm ersive art experience

The Coach Tourism Association

challenges for travellers including airport disruption, passport bureaucracy and border delays, as well as recent rail strikes, Simon emphasised the ease and convenience of coach travel

experiences our island has to offer,” says Niall.

C oac h operators bri ng i mport ant business t o Ireland at C TA Conference

Tourism Ireland’s Chief Executive reiterated the importance of coach tourism to the economy across the island of Ireland at the CTA Conference The Belfast event attracted over 180 delegates and hosted 800 meetings between suppliers and buyers from the coach tourism industry Staged at Europa Hotel, Belfast and sponsored by Tourism Ireland, the event took place between 5 to 7 February

“Coach tour travellers stay longer, spend more, and are particularly crucial during the off-season,” says Niall Gibbons, Tourism Ireland’s Chief Executive. “Tourism is an important industry for communities right around the island of Ireland and coach tourism business plays a key role.”

Keynote speaker, travel journalist Simon Calder, summarised the previous 12 months in tourism and looked to the year ahead Among

“Coach travel is the way of getting from A to B, whenever, so if you want assurance, go by coach,” says Simon. “There’s pent-up demand to travel, with lost adventures versus the cost of living, but many people are still travelling and spending ”

Speaking of his CTA Conference weekend experience, Simon comments: “It was a joy to be at Hillsborough Castle, and Northern Ireland hugely rewards the expectation of coach groups ”

During the CTA Conference Q&A session, Niall Gibbons reiterated the benefit of “hassle-free travel” between Great Britain and Ireland thanks to the Common Travel Area The Tourism Ireland chief also explained how the organisation can help operators overcome the “green haze”

“Many people in Great Britain know Ireland, but they know about all the many great and already popular things to see and do Our Tourism Ireland team in GB can connect with coach tour operators and wholesalers, to highlight and remind them of the wealth of

Tourism Northern Ireland’s Nikki Paterson went on to present the developments for coach tourism coming in 2023, including reopening of Titanic Belfast in Spring following an extensive refurbishment. Titanic Distillers will be Northern Ireland’s first working whiskey distillery to open in nearly 90 years and will include coach tours, while the Belfast Distillery Company will also open for tours in Autumn 2023 Meanwhile, hotel development increased by 15% in 2022 and four new hotels are also opening in Northern Ireland this year

During the CTA Conference weekend, delegates enjoyed a fam trip preview of Titanic Belfast, as well as Northern Ireland’s Royal residence, Hillsborough Castle Pre-event fam trips also took in the Giant’s Causeway, DerryLondonderry, and Belfast.

The CTA Meet the Buyer Workshop session hosted prearranged meetings between industry suppliers, and operators and wholesalers. Featuring new supplier members, plus long-standing members with new offers to promote, the event is set to generate a wealth of new product for 2024 and beyond.

“The annual Conference has generated a lot of new

business between supplier members and operators and wholesalers Some reestablished their relationships, while others met for the first time to secure future product,” says CTA Chair, Robert Shaw “So many operators and wholesalers reported that they would be bringing groups to Northern Ireland in future following their wonderful fam trip experiences, which showed the true value of participating in the conference.”

Commenting on the forecast for the year ahead from conference feedback, the CTA Chair says: “The majority of operators are ahead in bookings for 2023 compared to last year Especially from our 55 years old-plus traditional coach tour market, we’re seeing enthusiasm to travel backed up by financial spend We expect an upturn in business for the year ahead ”

A fundraising event during the Conference Gala Dinner also raised over £1,600 for People’s Kitchen Belfast which provides meals to marginalised and vulnerable people in Belfast

The CTA’s next event, Spring Networking & AGM, takes place in Llandudno, North Wales, on 21-22 May Visit ww w coacht ouri smassoc iation co u k to find out more.

B R E W E R Y V I S I T A N D TA S T I N G

A T B I E R K A S T E E L VA N H O N S E B R O U C K

O p e n f r o m T u e s d a y t o S a t u r d a y.

G u i d e d t o u r a t 1 0 h 3 0 , 1 4 h 3 0 & 1 6 h 3 0

P r i c e : € 1 2 p . p .

B e e r t a s t i n g ( 2 x 1 5 c l ) & 1 f r e e b e e r c h o c o l a te.

Fre e b o t t l e o f s p e c i a l t y b e e r ( 7 5 c l ) .

M o r e i n f o : w w w b i e r k a s te e l b e

Mar velous Markets

Shopaholics it’s time to get out and about, here are some great places to pick up some bargains, and you know that you can buy as much as you like, they’ll be plenty of room on the coach on the way home

are perfect for a weekly farm shop, gift shopping or a curious browsing of vinyl, books and jewellery

by Elizabeth II in 1987

Award-winning historical markets welcome shoppers to Oswestry Oswestry is an ancient, market town in northwest Shropshire, close to the Welsh border, and is the birthplace of the much-lauded World War One poet, Wilfred Owen

During the summer, many visitors come to the spectacular annual August Oswestry hot air balloon carnival or takeover Food and Drink festival in July, spilling over into street market stalls, showcasing the best artisan food and drink from all over Shropshire and North Wales.

For locals and visitors alike though Oswestry is synonymous with award-winning markets, with the original markets dating back 800 years The Oswestry Indoor Market was honoured with a recent prestigious award from The British Market Awards 2023, the judges were impressed with the eclectic range of wares from fishmongers, delicatessens to fashion and haberdashery

The Artisan Market is on the social calendar for all local foodies: held on the last Friday of the month Local traders include fresh pies and pastries, alongside a wide selection of fresh cured meat, cakes and crafts

The Indoor Market on Wednesdays, Fridays and

Saturdays is perfect on rainy, colder days, where you can browse to your heart’s content With over 40 independent businesses, there is something for everyone Once you have browsed why not enjoy their cafes or choose from a range of mouth-watering street food treats.

Oswestry Markets pride themselves on being inclusive, with full wheelchair access throughout: ramps and low curbs allowing accessibility Dogs are welcome, bring your four-legged friends on your shopping trip today

The British are a nation of shoppers and Oswestry’s markets

As we head towards Spring, Cae Glas Park is well worth a visit, after a busy time shopping It is a site of outstanding beauty and won a Gold in the Heart of England Award in 2022 With designated areas of spring and summer bedding, visit seasonally blooming flowers, the pavilion or traditional bandstand For steam enthusiasts, there is the Cambrian heritage Railways, operating between Oswestry and Weston Wharf

For more information, and to plan your visit today, please visit: www oswestrymar ket co uk

The Jubilee Hall, which houses the Jubilee Market, was designed and built in 1904 by Bedells and Lander in the heart of Covent Garden and gained Grade 2 listed status after a 1980 renovation programme and was re-opened

Nowadays, the market has a wide variety of eclectic arts and crafts stalls, to antiques and general market items spread over three different markets during a sevenday trading period Jubilee Market is instantly recognisable with its exciting atmosphere, flags and brass Jubilee Hall

Market signage From the moment you arrive, you are caught up in the hustle and bustle of diverse products from all across the UK Jubilee Market has plenty to offer pre booked groups for a fabulous shopping trip which includes discounted shopping for groups, group guided walking tours, a traditional snack bar and restaurant for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea for your groups Local coach drop off and public toilets are a short walking distance away

V isi t Jubil eemarket.co.uk

‘s hopping trips ’ or emai l Bar ry at i nfo@jubi leemarket co u k for ful l grou ps booking detai ls

Local produce, treats and a gift

Ludlow Kitchen On-site cafe with indoor & outdoor dining - dog friendly too!

Oswestry Market Days

OPEN

•Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

•Ample Free Coach Parking

•New central coach drop off point, booking essen al on 01691 680222. Toilets

•Loads of Independent Shops

•Award Winning Park Covent Garden’s historic indoor Jubilee Market has plenty to o er groups for a fabulous shopping trip. You can also book our 45-minute guided walking tour of

package

Oswestry the birthplace of famous war poet Wilfred Owen

CONTACT DAVID CLOUGH OSWESTRY TOWN COUNCIL 01691 680222 WWW.OSWESTRY TC.GOV.UK WWW.OSWESTRYMARKET.CO.UK

Exploring Sussex

Sussex, a county located in South East England, full of historic landmarks, picturesque countryside, and stunning coastal scenery If you're planning a trip to Sussex, there are plenty of attractions you shouldn't miss!

T he Blu ebel l Rail way

2023 brings an exciting year ahead at the Bluebell, with at least one new locomotive in service, the completion of various refurbishments and restorations of rolling stock, and buildings, not to mention the return of their Branch Line Gala after a couple of years

They look forward to welcoming the Flying Scotsman, in its centenary year where it will be spending time at the railway, and operating on a variety of services As ever, popular events such as their beer festival, and festive celebrations will be making a welcome return as will the ever popular dining trains Group visits will as always be available, and they have a member of the team who will liaise with tour operators to ensure the visit is tailor-made to suit the clients.

To find ou t mor e vis it their websi te, at www bluebellr ail way com, contact them via emai l: info@blu ebel l-r ail way com, or speak to one of th ei r cus tomer s ervices team on 01825 720800

Ar undel Castl e

If you're a fan of medieval history, then Arundel Castle is the place for you! This thousand-year-old castle in the South Downs National Park is like stepping back in time Explore the castle's history, stunning gardens, and medieval architecture Oh, and did we mention group discounts are available? Score!

Vi sit their webs ite for mor e informati on: ar undelcastl e or g

Seven Si sters

Of course there’s the Seven Sisters - a series of chalk cliffs

that will make you feel like you're on top of the world (or at least the South Coast of England)

Take a hike along the South Downs Way and prepare to be blown away by the stunning views of the English Channel

Check out their website for group discounts that won't break the bank:

https://www nati onaltr ust or g uk/ bir li ng-gap-and-the-seven-si sters

Parham H ouse

Looking for a historic and charming destination in Sussex? Look no further than Parham House! This stunning Elizabethan mansion is a true gem, filled with fine furniture, paintings, and textiles that will transport you back in time to the days of Queen Elizabeth I

But that's not all - Parham House is also surrounded by beautiful gardens, including a walled garden, a lake, and a Pleasure Ground Whether you're a history

buff or just looking for a picturesque place to stroll, Parham House is sure to delight

To plan your visit, give the house a ring at +44 (0)1903 742021 or visit their website at www par haminsu ss ex co uk

There, you'll find all the information you need on opening hours, admission prices, and upcoming events

And if you're planning to bring a group of ten or more people, be sure to ask about their group discounts! You might just save enough to treat yourself to a souvenir from the gift shop

V is it Eastbour ne

For those of you who crave some nature, head on over to Beachy Head - a dramatic chalk headland that rises 162 metres above the sea It's a must-see for anyone visiting Sussex

Take a walk along the cliff-top trails and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline Don't forget to ask about group discounts so you can save some moolah!

Check ou t thei r website for more detail s:

www vis iteastbour ne com/thi ngsto-do/beachy-head

THE BLUEBELL RAILWAY

Steamingthrough Sussex

it’ s morre than just a train ride

Travel back in time across the stunning Sussex High Weald, area of outstanding natural beauty on one of Britain’s oldest heritage railway lines.

What’s there to do?

• Live steam trains up to 150 years old

• 4 Beautiful stations in various period decor

• SteamWorks! Interactive learning zone

• A full range of dining trains

• is ee vets tt te e

• Licensed bar & restaurant ‘Bessemer Arms’

• Free parking on-site & mainline rail access

• Museum and various shops

What’s on at Bluebell in 2023

• f e f ii tis ii fte es e ii is

• e ste ii i veis

• ie ee eee

• i ts t ete isit •

• teits t festive tis

Best of the South West

Cream and jam or jam and then cream you can have it both

ways here, the South West beloved of writers and film-makers two national parks, the regency city of Bath, pies, pasties and Padstow who wouldn’t want to visit?

S TEAM AND SCENERY IN B EAUTIF UL SOUTH D EVON

Take a trip back in time on the South Devon Railway, a delightful steam train journey along the banks of the river Dart on a typical West Country rural branch line

It’s a top destination for groups and parties because it offers a hugely memorable experience with outstanding appeal across all age ranges and interests – and at very attractive rates for groups too

At its heart is a delightful 14-mile return steam train journey through some of Devon’s most beautiful and hidden countryside, hugging the river for most of your trip The trains take you on a leisurely ride in vintage carriages from Buckfastleigh, just off the A38, midway between Exeter and Plymouth, to Totnes and back again

At Buckfastleigh, there is a riverside walk and picnic area, gardens, museum and a wellstocked shop and café There is plenty of coach parking with easy, flat access to the platform

If you are looking for a range of

easy to book options, the railway offers a great variety of entertainment at very attractive prices

This includes joint tickets for the railway and the fascinating Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies, next to the station at Buckfastleigh

More detail s are at www.southdevonr ailway.co.u k, email trains @southdevonr ailway co uk or call 01364 644370 for ful l detai ls

Pecorama

Pecorama is one of Devon’s leading tourist attractions – set high on the hillside above the picturesque fishing village of Beer Visitors can expect a great day out for all the family, enjoying award-winning gardens, stunning sea views, home-made food and a selection of refreshments from food and drink outlets Then, take a ride on arguably Britain’s finest 7 25 inch railway, where a fleet of steam locomotives pull passengercarrying trains on a mile long route through the grounds, over bridges, through steep-sided cuttings and a long, dark tunnel!

There are also large outside play areas, a mini-golf course, a wildway walk with stunning views and an interactive exhibition

Ticket entry includes access to the award-winning gardens, the new model railway exhibition, PECO model shop and a train

ride Extra rides can be purchased on the day and this year, the attraction is also offering membership for fantastic value, as well as bookings for children’s birthday parties, and larger groups www

TRAI N RIDES & STUNNING SE A VIEWS

BEAUTIFUL AWA RD -WINNING G A RDE NS

DE LIC IOUS HOMEMADE PIZZAS

MODE L R AILWAY SHOP & E XHIBITION

PARKING FOR COACHES

CAFÉ & G IF T SHOP

FOR GROUPS OF 10+ GET TICKETS FOR JUST £9. 9 5 (USUALLY £12.95)

For £19.95 ge t e ntr y to Pecorama a n d have a deliciou s Devon C rea m Tea on ou r beautifull y restored O rion Pullman c arria ge f rom t he 1950s

For £2 4.95 ge t e ntr y to Pecorama a n d have a decaden t H ig h Tea of f reshl y made s andwiche s an d c ake s on ou r O rion Pullma n c arriage or for £29. 95 you c a n have t he a bove w it h a g las s of s parkling!

For g rou p booking s p lease c all : 01297 21542 email: i nfo@pe corama.co.u k

Tour Operator s

customer service and exceptional travel value Request a travel brochure from Daish's Holidays at www daishs com/ groups to start planning your next unforgettable trip today!

Greatdays Travel

worldwide tours by coach and by air Their friendly teams, located in picturesque Herefordshire, offer a wide portfolio of tours and considerable knowledge and experience to make your trip unforgettable

travel services to individuals and businesses With a team of experienced travel agents, T4 Travel Ltd offers a wide range of travel solutions, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, car rentals, and tour packages

Da ish's Holida ys

Looking to plan a group holiday with your loved ones, club, or society?

Daish's Holidays has got you covered! They can tailor-make a coach holiday to any of their hotels on the dates that suit you best With all-inclusive trips to many popular holiday destinations, including Blackpool, Bournemouth, and the Isle of Wight, Daish's Holidays has been providing the UK with the best domestic holidays for over 40 years Whether you're going on a family holiday or a couplesonly getaway, you won't be disappointed with their friendly

Greatdays Travel Group is one of the UK's leading group travel tour operators, with extensive experience in both incoming and outgoing tourism to London, the UK, continental Europe, and worldwide They offer competitive prices and inspiring travel ideas, and their friendly team can organise everything from accommodation to sightseeing and more With over 80,000 happy travelers served since 1985, you know you're in good hands with Greatdays

Visit ww w greatdays co uk t o learn more

Norman Allen Grou p Travel

Norman Allen Group Travel (NAGT) is a family-owned company founded in 1972. Their activities exclusively involve group travel, and they are dedicated to providing quality British, Irish, European, and

Visit w ww grou p-travel com to learn more.

Albat ross Travel G rou p

Albatross Travel Group was founded in 1985 with a vision to provide travelers with unique and authentic travel experiences Today, Albatross Travel Group has grown to become one of the leading travel companies in the UK, offering a wide range of tours and travel packages to destinations all over the world.

With over 35 years of experience in the travel industry, Albatross Travel Group prides itself on providing exceptional service and expert knowledge to its customers Their team of travel specialists works tirelessly to create tailor-made itineraries that cater to the needs and preferences of each individual traveller

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled trip, Albatross Travel Group has something to offer From cultural tours of Europe to safari adventures in Africa, their travel packages are designed to give you the experience of a lifetime

www alba trossgrou p com/ get -intouch/

T4 Travel

T4 Travel is a tour operator that specializes in providing high-quality

One of the standout features of T4 Travel Ltd is their commitment to providing exceptional customer service Their team of travel experts is dedicated to helping their clients find the best travel options that fit their budget and preferences From luxury vacations to budget-friendly trips, T4 Travel Ltd has something for everyone

In addition to their exceptional customer service, T4 Travel Ltd also offers a user-friendly website that makes it easy for customers to book their travel arrangements online The website is designed to be easy to navigate, and customers can search for flights, hotels, and rental cars all in one place

If you're looking for a reliable travel agency that offers exceptional service and a user-friendly website, look no further than T4 Travel Ltd

V isit their website at ww w t4travel com to start planning you r next trip today

Get ready to plan your next amazing adventure with these incredible tour operators who offer some of the best holidays around, so wherever you choose to go these tour operators have got it covered

Science and Exploration

Exploring the wonders of science and the mysteries of the natural world is an experience that can be enjoyed by groups of all ages

Ir onbridge V alley of Inve ntion

Set within the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ironbridge Valley of Invention is situated five miles from Telford Town Centre in Shropshire.

Stretching along the River Severn, their award-winning museums are within six square miles of the Ironbridge Gorge, widely regarded as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

and coach driver

Free coach parking and complimentary refreshment voucher for each driver

Free familiarisation visit for 2 adults when you book a group visit Catering options to suit every taste and budget

Guided tours with their experts

HOW TO BOOK YOUR GROUP VISIT

They look forward to welcoming your group to Ironbridge.

A major n ew galle ry e xploring how engineer s cha nge the w orld will open at the Sc ien ce Muse um in Lon don on 23 June 20 23.

In June 2023, the Science Museum will open an ambitious new gallery dedicated to world-changing engineering innovations and the diverse and fascinating range of people behind them

Engineers change the world They work creatively, sustainably, with precision, and collaboratively, to create bold, ground-breaking responses to global challenges and improve billions of lives

The Engineers gallery will celebrate our engineering heritage and showcase some of these innovations through the global lens of the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering the world’s leading award for engineers with current and past prize winners featured throughout At the heart of the gallery will be richly illustrated, characterful stories from more than 60 engineers working in a broad range of industries, such as farming, fashion, robotics and medicine, shining a light

on their lives, motivations, thought processes, and what they do day to day

ww w science muse um o rg uk

Jodr ell Bank Obser va tor y, Ch eshire:

The Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire is home to one of the largest radio telescopes in the world, and is a must-visit for those interested in astronomy and space exploration For more information, visit their website at www jodrellbank net/ or call 01477

571 766

Discounted rates are available for groups of 15 or more.

With plenty of places to explore you will keep all your group happy, including The Blist Hill Victorian Town, The Jackfield Tile Museum, The Coalport China Museum and of course The Iron Bridge and Toll House.

You can complete an online booking form and they will be in touch within a few days to confirm your booking or to discuss your visit further

If you would like more information,

Discover the award-winning attractions in the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site - a really perfect place for groups!

Visit as a group and save! Discounted admission rates for groups of 15+ Free entry for the group organiser

they are always happy to answer any of your questions and to discuss your visit in detail, please contact the group visits team at groups@iron bridge org uk or 01952 435 9 00.

www iro nbridge or g uk

The Iron Bridge Jack eld Tile Museum Blists Hill Victorian Town

River Cr uising

See the world from a different perspective, relax as you gently cruise along the rivers and lakes, there’s plenty of glorious scenery and wildlife to enjoy

Da rtmouth Ste am Railw ay

Dartmouth Steam Railway steam trains travel seven miles along the spectacular South Devon coast down into the Dart Valley, a designated area of outstanding beauty, to the beautiful village of Kingswear which sits proudly opposite the pretty Port of Dartmouth Here you will find Dartmouth River Boats which operate on the stunning River Dart offering scheduled services to the historic town of Totnes and Harbour

Cruises operate daily from Dartmouth

Their unique network combines steam railway, river and sea adventures for days out in Devon For example, the Round Robin is an award-winning full day out - a steam train journey, ferry crossing, river cruise and bus ride They are also proud operators of the last remaining coal fired paddle steamer in the UK, “Kingswear Castle”

drop off points, etc They’re happy to have a chat!

www d artmouthra ilriver co uk

Winde rmer e Lake C ruises

Winter in Windermere and the Lake District is a particularly special time of year where you can enjoy snow covered fells, frosty fresh air and warm cosy cafes And it’s a great time for groups to enjoy the experiences offered by Windermere Lake Cruises

Visitors will marvel as they glide by stunning winter landscapes in the heart of the Lake District while sipping a “winter warmer” in the heated cabin of a Windermere launch Those warmers include coffee, brandy or even a hot chocolate with a hint of rum!

Windermere Lake Cruises is a threetime finalist at the British Coach Tourism Awards and has won top honours twice in recent years

Attractive incentives for all prebooked groups and their coach drivers are in-place at the Boatman’s Café in Bowness where a variety of Windermere cruises depart.

groups as easy as possible for organisers, Windermere Lake Cruises has its ‘Transport Trio’ offer which includes a fascinating visit to its sister-attraction Lakeland Motor Museum and incorporates a steam train journey with Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway

There are over 30 hand-picked itineraries for groups involving partnerships with local attractions so you can find the perfect group package to meet your interests, budget and timings

Attractions Windermere Lake Cruises

partners with include The Lakes Aquarium, The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction and The National Trust’s Hill Top venue Group visits to Windermere offer a unique experience to create lasting memories and encourage return visits

V isit Winder mere La ke C ruises we bsite a nd do wnload the Groups Bro chure for full de ta ils

And let’s not forget Christmas! Your customers can experience the multi award-winning Christmas experience and the UK's first steam train of lights! The Christmas Train of Lights is now the must-see event in the South West festive calendar and gets bigger every year

Contact the Booking Office for details on all their trips and options plus advice on coach parking and

For passengers, these include 10% discount vouchers for the café and gift shop, along with new menus, table service and toilet facilities For drivers and group guides, the attraction offers free parking, group rates, a voucher for refreshments and the opportunity to purchase local gifts at a reduced rate to re-sell to passengers

In efforts to make visits by large

Great Summer Gardens & Fab ulous Flower Shows

There can’t be a better way than enjoying what nature has to offer including rare trees and plant collections from around the world set in a glorious garden

Hergest Croft Gardens

Kington

HR5 3EG

70 acre stunning gardens holding National collections of Maple and Birch trees. Open daily –1st April – 29th October. Gift Shop, Plant Sales, Tearoom. Dogs on leads welcome. Personalised tours – individual/groups booked in advance. Coaches by appt. Tel:01544230160 www.hergest.co.uk

Hergest C rof t G ardens

Hergest Croft Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden located in Kington, Herefordshire, England The garden is famous for its stunning collection of rare plants, trees, and shrubs

Visitors can stroll through the various gardens, including the Azalea Garden, the Maple Grove, and the Kitchen Garden, and enjoy the tranquil setting In addition, the gardens host regular events, such as art exhibitions and plant sales To learn more about Hergest Croft Gardens and plan your visit, check out their website at h ttps:// www hergest co uk/

RHS Malvern Spring Festival has u nveiled the full line u p of celebrity a nd special guest s set to featu re at t he show when it returns to Three C ounties Show ground from 11 – 14 M ay 2023

With a reputation as the trailblazer of the esteemed RHS floral show season, this year’s festival will be bursting with immersive new experiences, engaging talks and demonstrations from experts, a cornucopia of colourful flora and fauna, exciting entertainment for all ages, and, of course, a star-studded line-up of horticultural guests, TV presenters, authors and celebrity chefs.

This year’s Festival Theatre will be hosted by RHS Vice President,

Design Ambassador and Gardeners’ World magazine columnist, James Alexander-Sinclair Joining James on stage over the long-weekend will be a special selection of BBC Gardeners’ World presenters and expert horticulturists, including Adam Frost, Arit Anderson, Frances Tophill and Sue Kent, as well as allround gardening guru Alan Titchmarsh MBE Between them, these gardening experts will share top tips and advice on everything from affordable gardening to gardening for a changing climate Also joining them on the Festival Theatre stage will be the community gardener and talented designer Tayshan Hayden-Smith, who will be sharing his passion for empowering young people and communities to get more involved in horticulture

Tickets for th e RHS Malvern Spring Festival 2023 start f rom ju st £25 (with under 16s free of charge) and

can be purchased at www rhsmalv ern co uk

Royal Botanical Gardens Kew

Set in 326 acres of beautiful grounds containing the largest living plant collection in the world, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site less than 30 minutes from central London The Gardens’ famous glasshouses provide hours of fascinating discovery whether it’s a tropical rainforest in the iconic Palm House; a journey through ten climatic zones in the Princess of Wales Conservatory or giant lily pads in the Waterlily House The jewel in Kew’s crown, the Temperate House, is the world’s largest surviving Victorian glasshouse which recently reopened after a huge five-year restoration project Over 10,000 plants from the world’s temperate regions are housed in this veritable cathedral of glass

A soaring Treetop Walkway offers the chance of a bird’s eye view of the Gardens, whilst those without a head for heights can discover beautiful botanical art in their galleries, or step back in time at Kew Palace, the former summer residence of George III and Britain's most intimate royal palace In

contrast, The Hive is a contemporary architectural installation which came to Kew in 2016 This extraordinarily beautiful and immersive 17-metre-high structure examines the importance and plight of the world’s bees

For more information, please visit ww w. kew.org/groups, ema il groups@kew org or call 020 8332 5648 to speak t o a member of the Groups depart ment

Discover centuries of history at Hever Castle in Kent, the childhood hom e of Anne Boleyn,

Tulip Celebrations: 18th – 24th April

Follow the trail throughout the grounds with special varieties to look out for and new areas planted Hever in Bloom: 20th – 26th June Experience the quintessential English Rose Garden at the height of its summer beauty Many of the Castle rooms will be filled with stunning floral arrangements created by their florist and garden team.

Garden tours: Groups can also enjoy an hour long tour of the gardens with one of the Hever Castle gardening team

Garden Tours must be booked in advance and are only available on weekdays.

V isit heverca stle co uk/ groups, Em ail groups@heverca stle co uk or call 01732 861701

By Royal Appointment

2023 the year of the coronation of King Charles 111, here we look at some venues and attractions with connections to British Royalty both ancient and modern

Boar Café

Tel :0116 229 4132

grou ps@kriii co, www kriii com

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia was home to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family for over 40 years, sailing one million miles around the world on nearly a thousand official visits.

honeymooned and where Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra and presidents Reagan, Mandela and Gorbachev were entertained Highlights of the tour include the State Apartments, the Engine Room and Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite, the Sun Lounge Head down to the lower decks to see where 220 Royal Yachtsmen lived and worked Discover a tour highlight, the gleaming Engine Room

The King Richard III Visitor Centre have been celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the rediscovery of King Richard III, can you believe it has been ten years?

the very site where the incredible story of the king under the car park, last to die in battle, first to be DNA tested, occurred In 2023 they have new displays about the latest archaeological research undertaken on the Greyfriars precinct, showing how the grave site has changed over the centuries and why Richard III was buried there, over 500 years ago

Berthed in Edinburgh’s historic Port of Leith, Britannia is a fascinating visitor attraction featured in TripAdvisor’s Top UK Attractions and has been rated Best UK Attraction (Which magazine readers)

Enjoy stunning waterfront views from the Royal Deck Tea Room to sample delicious cakes, scones, soups and sandwiches, made in the Royal Galley

Join them for a fantastic day out in 2023 as they celebrate 70 years since the launch of Britannia!

This year they will also be celebrating everything Coronation and you can join in the celebrations with a group visit to see the grave site of Richard III and the multiaward-winning exhibition, with cutting edge interactives about his life, death and rediscovery, all on

As part of the 10th Anniversary Celebration’s they are offering excellent group rates at only £7 25 per person, they look after the tour guide and the coach driver, ensure every group has a personal meet and greet welcome, provide exclusive bookable talks and tours, and of course they have a variety of fabulous catering options available from their award-winning White

Visitors can tour all five highly accessible decks of this magnificent Royal Yacht with a captivating handset tour, available in over 30 languages as well as British Sign Language tablet

The tour offers a rare glimpse into the public and private lives of the British Royal Family Follow in the footsteps of Royalty to see where Prince Charles and Princess Diana

To book your group visit, go online: ww w roya lya cht brit annia co uk/visit/ group-visit/

Distilleries, Breweries & Vineyards

Whatever your favourite tipple is, at these fine establishments you and your group can sample the creme de la creme, but don’t forget to count your coach party in and then out again

Does your group want the rush of flying through woodland trails on a mountain bike? Or they could make a splash as they try windsurfing or yachting? With lots of activities on offer, Dumfries & Galloway is pretty much one big adventure playground, but there are plenty of options for gentle walks or cycles too And when it comes to culture this region knows how to pack a punch Each year kicks off with the vibrant Big Burns Supper in January and the months after are peppered with dedicated celebrations for arts & crafts, performing arts, features, and sports, not to mention some of Scotland's coolest music festivals.

Enjoy a guided tour at the beautiful, working distillery, taking in the fascinating past with a glimpse into their future They offer a range of different tours

V is it the iconic Annandal e D is till ery for a r eal taste of the s pir it of Scotl and

Discover how the first distillery in Scotland was saved and restored by Professor David Thomson and Teresa Church, and see how the multi award-winning single-cask single-malt Scotch Whisky is made, on a tour of this 5-star attraction.

You can even fill your own bottle or cask for a memorable souvenir

The tours include elements that involve all your senses. There is barley to feel, peat to smell, machinery to listen to and whisky to taste. You can even hammer cask bungs in the warehouse, and you have access all areas, as your tour guide shows you around their award-winning site.

Every tour guest receives an Annandale snifter, branded lanyard and concertina leaflet for your tasting notes You will also enjoy tastings including an Annandale peated blend, both their award-winning 2015 Vintage Man O’ Words & Man O’ Sword Single Cask-Single Malts and both Peated & Unpeated Rascally Liquor.

Their Michelin experienced, Group Executive Chef, sources local Scottish produce for his

team to deliver freshly prepared hot and cold menu option including divine two-course Afternoon Teas

They also serve wine, craft beers and ciders and, as you’d expect, an extensive whisky selection.

Their Classic Tour runs every hour, on-the-hour They can accept groups of up to 120 guests Annandale Distillery, Tours 10am – 4pm // Maltings Coffee Shop, 10am-4pm Open 7 days a week

www annandaledi stil ler y com

D i s c o v e r T h e T r u e S p i r i t O f S c o t l a n d

V i s i t A n n a n d a l e D i s t i l l e r y a n d d i s c o v e r t h e s c i e n c e b e h i n d t h e a v o u r s . D i s c o v e r h o w w e u s e j u s t t h r e e i n g r e d i e n t s t o c r e a t e t h e t r u e s p i r i t o f S c o t l a n d . E x p l o r e t h e h i s t o r y c o n n

Book Now

T h e G l o b e I n n , D u m f r i e s , i s f u l l o f c h a r a c t e r a n d h a s a t a l e o r t w o t o t e l l . N a m e d ‘ T h e M o s t H i s t o r i c P u b i n S c o t l a n d ’ b y S c o t t i s h F i e l d m a g a z i n e , T h e G l o b e I n n w a s t h e f a v o u r i t e ‘ h o w ’ o f R o b e r t B u r n s , S c o t l a n d ’ s n a t i o n a l p o e t . E x p e r i e n c e t h e C l a s s i c B u r n s T o u r a n d e x p l o r e w h e r e t h e b a r d w r o t e , r e a d a n d r e c i t e d w h a t w o u l d g o o n t o b e s o m e o f t h e m o s t f a m o u s v e r s e s e v e r w r i t t e n . D i s c o v e r t h e w i n d o w s w h e r e B u r n s s c r i b e d w i t h h i s d i a m o n d s t y l u s a n d s h a r e a d r a m i n t h e w o r l d f a m o u s s n u g . C h o o s e t o d i n e i n o u r 1 6 1 0 r e s t a u r a n t o r o n e o f o u r p r i v a t e d i n i n g r o o m s , i n c l u d i n g T h e B u r n s R o o m - w h e r e t h e p o e t h i m s e l f d i n e d .

All Coaches and Groups Welcome

Take a look at these venues and attractions both home and away, you’ll be sure to find a great reception upon arrival , they like nothing better than to see a smiling, happy coach party arrive

making Seaprobe Atlantis accessible and fun for all ages & agilities Coach parties are especially welcome Toilets and refreshments are available on board – and they also have their associated café and gift shop where coach parties can both have lunch and shop for that special souvenir

spectacular scenery of Skye, her off-shore islands and the Scottish mainland This is the trip most favoured by coach parties The published price for the 1 hr trip is £20 per adult - with the coach party rate £14 per adult.

www seapr obeatl anti s com

roots music venue, the Spa Valley Railway and the recent addition of The Amelia Scott , a cultural centre housing art exhibitions, interactive historical rooms and the museum

All the Scener y and Wi ldli fe, above and below the Waves

Seaprobe Atlantis is an award winning semi-submersible glass bottom boat, operating within the marine special area of conservation at Kyle of Lochalsh. Based on the mainland side of the Skye Bridge and first established in 1998, Seaprobe

Atlantis has been a 4 STAR visitor attraction since 1999 It was voted ‘Best Wildlife Watching Experience in the UK’ (Daily Telegraph) The boat’s unique and innovative design provides a safe and exceptionally stable platform from which to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Skye & Lochalsh, with superb close-up views of the local seals & other wildlife above the waves, whilst below the waves, its huge underwater viewing gallery, easily-accessed by all, offers full head height, comfortable seating, and all-round underwater vision Drift through beautiful kelp forests amidst a sea of summer jellyfish, and marvel at the rich diversity of wildlife in this Marine Special Area of Conservation

Atlantis’s sheltered design and location ensures the weather usually has no effect on cruises and its exceptional stability means no motion sickness

Seaprobe Atlantis operates throughout the day, 7 days a week from Easter-October 31st, The 1 hr trips explore through the underwater kelp forests, go to see the seals, and cruise out under the Skye Bridge, taking in the

Di scover Tu nbridge Well s, nes tled in the hear t of the G arden of England

Royal Tunbridge Wells has long been a popular destination for tours and groups, conveniently situated just over an hour from Dover and Greater London and just 25 minutes from the M25 network. This Royal Spa town in Kent offers visitors the best of all worlds; set within an area of outstanding natural beauty, the home of Decimus Burton architecture, The Pantiles and Chalybeate spring, two thriving theatres, an award-winning grass-

Tunbridge Wells is an all-year round destination with annual events including Jazz on the Pantiles, music concerts and festivals, a literary festival, food and drink festivals alongside walking tours, open gardens, the Tunbridge Wells circular walk, foodie experiences and seasonal events

It is also a historically fascinating town, visitors have been coming to Royal Tunbridge Wells since the discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606 Over the subsequent years the town grew in popularity and gained its reputation as the place to see and be seen The Wells became a favourite destination for

fashionable society who needed accommodation and wanted places of entertainment such as coffee houses, gaming-rooms and an assembly room for dances and balls, along with hosting horse races on the Old Race Track, now protected footpaths on the Common In 1909 it received its ‘Royal’ status from King Edward VII with its many royal and aristocratic visitors and was once the holiday location for a young Queen Victoria, who also used to worship at King Charles the Martyr Church by The Pantiles Today, Tunbridge Wells is also a

until Sunday 10th December 2023

Regarded as one of the UK’s best festive experiences, approximately 500,000 visitors enjoy a magical Christmas in Bath With chalets entwining most of Bath’s key tourist attractions, visitors can make a day of exploring the historic streets of this beautiful world heritage city.

Dedicated coach drop-off and pickup is based in Royal Victoria Park, minutes from the centre of the market and key attractions in Bath such as the Royal Crescent Booking will open early August

without a proper brew of Yorkshire tea, but if coffee’s more to your taste there’s a full range of barista beverages from expresso to latte and cappuccino

Visitors from far and wide already love Bizzie Lizzie’s signature dish of fish and & chips - succulent cod or haddock covered in crispy batter and tasty golden chips fried in beef dripping for extra flavour are firm favourites The restaurant’s Katie Davison is certain that their afternoon teas will be just as popular “A lot of love goes into preparing and serving our food We use only the finest local ingredients in all our dishes and our afternoon teas are no exception Our fish and chips were voted winners of the National Fish and Chip awards and we are confident that our afternoon teas are worthy of a similar accolade.”

Bizzie Lizzie’s has two restaurants

in Skipton; the traditional Swadford Street (now serving Gluten Free fish and chips) and the more contemporary High Street Car Park Both offer fish & chips plus alternative meals whilst High Street Car Park also serves afternoon teas.

Coach party bookings are welcome V isit w ww bizzieliz zies co uk

premier shopping location with a broad range of big brands and independents within the key shopping areas; Royal Victoria Place, The Camden Quarter, The Old High Street, Chapel Place and The Pantiles. The town also has dedicated coach parking bays five minutes’ walk from the town centre or The Pantiles

For mor e i nformation vi si t w ww visitt unbridgewells co m/ tours

with limited availability, please visit bathch ristmasma rket co uk/ get tinghere for more information

Yorkshire’s Bizzie Liz zie’s Fish & Chip Restau ra nt Serv es up Af ternoon Tea s

Yorkshire is well known for its fabulous selection of fish & chip restaurants But Bizzie Lizzie’s set in the heart of Skipton serves up much more than just its award winning fish and chips. Already a favourite with coach visitors to the bustling market town of Skipton, Bizzie Lizzie’s is now serving scrumptious afternoon teas from 2 30pm – 5pm at their High Street Car Park Restaurant

ursday

Ba th Christmas M arket

Bath Christmas Market returns from Thursday 23rd November

Choose from melt-in-the mouth sponges, heavenly chocolate fudge cake and a selection of locally baked pastries, or enjoy an indulgent afternoon cream tea with freshly baked scones Of course afternoon tea wouldn’t be complete

Discover Tunbridge Wells, nestled in the heart of the Garden of England

Come and visit Tunbridge Wells, the Royal Spa town of Kent set within an area of outstanding natural beauty in the Garden of England.

The home of Decimus Burton architecture, The Pantiles and Chalybeate spring, two thriving theatres, an award-winning grass-roots music venue, the Spa Valley Railway and The Amelia Scott Centre housing art exhibitions, interactive historical rooms and the museum.

An all year round destination with annual events including Jazz on the Pantiles, live music, music festivals, literary festival, food and drink festivals alongside walking tours, open gardens, historical guided tours, the Tunbridge Wells circular walk, foodie experiences and seasonal events

Today, Tunbridge Wells is also a premier shopping location with a broad range of big brands and independents within the key shopping areas; Royal Victoria Place, The Camden Quarter, The Old High Street, Chapel Place and The Pantiles

• Coach friendly with dedicated parking bays for coaches

• Over 70 restaurants, pubs and cafes, many welcome 10-150 people in group bookings

• 10 hotels, please visit the website for more information and those that are travel trade ready locations

• Special o ers and discounts for coach drivers

• All year round events

• Wealth of historic houses, castles and attractions on its doorstep

• Served by excellent road, air and ferry/Eurotunnel networks

• Premier shopping destination with wide range of big brands and independents

Opera House Parade

Christmas in Chapel Place

King Charles the Martyr Church

The Amelia Scott Centre

The Spa Valley Railway

Dunorlan Park in Tunbridge Wells The stunning Scotney Castle

Iconic Kent Oast Houses

The Historic Pantiles

H elmsley Walled Garden

Helmsley Walled Garden is five glorious acres in the North York Moors National Park A patchwork of small, intimate gardens is planted up with beautiful displays of flowers, fruit and vegetables Used as one of the locations for the new film version of The Secret Garden, it is full of colour and corners to explore as well as places to sit and relax The garden is fully accessible and dogs are welcome on leads

Stroll along the Hot Border which zings with colour in summer, discover medieval medicinal herbs in the Physic Garden Find out about their collection of Yorkshire apple varieties or just relax under a tree in the Orchard

The award-winning Vine House Café provides a range of delicious

cakes and lunches with a changing specials board and a collection of specially curated gins.

Their garden shop and plant centre have a range of plants propagated in the garden as well as gifts, cards, books, food and drink made in Yorkshire

Enjoy a day at this beautiful garden

over the world flock to this iconic destination

Originally built in the 13th century, the castle has been the seat of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. Its rich history and cultural significance are evident in every stone and artifact within its walls.

But Dunvegan Castle is more than just a historical landmark It's also a hub of activity, with events and activities throughout the year for visitors of all ages From guided tours to live music performances, there's always something to do at Dunvegan

And if you're travelling with a group, be sure to take advantage of the castle's group discounts You can save big on admission, making your trip to Dunvegan Castle even more memorable

So don't miss out on the opportunity to experience one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks Visit Dunvegan Castle today and see for yourself why it's truly a gem of the Isle of Skye

For more information on Dunvegan Castle, including group discounts and upcoming events, visit their website at

w ww du nvegancastle co m

Th e Royal Mint

In 1968 The Royal Mint began to move its operations from Tower Hill in the City of London to Llantrisant, and has operated on a single site in Llantrisant South Wales since 1980

With some of the most talented coin designers and craftsmanship in the world, they pride ourselves on creating beautiful and unique coins but did you know they also

e Diplomat Hotel Restaurant & Spa, Carmarthenshire, Llanelli - great for groups

e Diplomat is a family run hotel,operated with charm, warmth and generous hospitality, ensuring that any visiting group receives a warm welcome and wonderful stay. is iconic Llanelli hotel was built in 1810, and today its bedrooms feature stylish décor, with TV, hairdryer, tea/co ee facilities and private bathroom. e Diplomat Hotel also boasts a modern health club with full service spa and indoor heated swimming pool. Guests can relax in the luxurious New Eden Spa, with facilities including a sauna, steam room, hot tub, gym and indoor pool. A range of health and beauty treatments are also available.

Trubshaws Restaurant o ers a modern menu for Lunch and Dinner. Traditional Welsh and lighter continental breakfasts are served each morning. e Diplomat hotel is in the perfect location to explore Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, the Gower Peninsula and all of south Wales.

For details of group rates call 01554 756156 or visit www.diplomat-hotel-wales.com

and bronze medals for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

New for 2023 – their tour has been refreshed, with new interactive displays, King Charles III artwork and an exciting strike your own program

NEW FOR 2023 - Bespoke & Historically Yours

They are constantly looking at ways to improve their offering to their partners ‘Bespoke & Historically

Yours’ is their new package offering. From Pre booked lunch, Dinner in the evening with late tours, Afternoon Tea themed to your choice, Talks & Presentations from one of the amazing teams at The Royal Mint PLUS They are working close with many other award winning attractions in the area to offer you discounted rates when you book 2 or more attractions

They can really make your visit stand out as unique to you Just ask them for more information. Contact the team for more information and dates of events

T raveltrade@ royalmin t.com

G roups@royalmint com

H awkstone Hall

Is your group looking for a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Look no further than Hawkstone Hall, a stunning historic mansion nestled in

the heart of Shropshire

Originally built in the 18th century, this exquisite estate has been lovingly restored to its former glory, complete with opulent interiors, beautiful gardens, and a range of top-notch amenities From the moment you step through the doors, you'll feel like you've been transported to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication

Whether you're looking to relax in the comfort of your own private suite, indulge in a sumptuous meal at the on-site restaurant, or explore the beautiful countryside that surrounds the estate, Hawkstone Hall has something for everyone

And the best part? Groups of all sizes are welcome! Whether you're planning a romantic getaway for two or a family reunion for 20, the estate's spacious accommodations and versatile event spaces can accommodate your needs

So why wait? Book your stay at Hawkstone Hall today and experience the ultimate in luxury and relaxation Visit their website at www hawkstonehall co uk to learn more, and be sure to inquire about any group discounts that may be available

Museu m of London

Docklands

Do you know your skiffs from your bumboats? Would you like to hear salacious tales of sailors with a wife in every port? How much fun does

the Frost Fair sound, with skittles, sing-songs and an elephant being paraded on the frozen River Thames? And what about the Great Stink of 1815?

You’ll find all this and much more at Museum Of London Docklands as you delve into the rich history that surrounds the River Thames and the people who made a living from it and a life around it

A shared place in the heart of the East End, where stories cross and collide, it confidently shows how international trade, migration, enslavement and the river Thames

houses the London, Sugar and Slavery gallery which is the only permanent gallery dedicated to the history of slavery in London There is also a special events and rotating temporary exhibitions programme as well as a popular café so do visit the museum’s website ahead of your visit Groups of all sizes are very welcome and can enquire about enhancing your visit with curator talks, tours around the galleries and expert led walks

The museum is open 7 days a week, from 10am-5pm and is FREE to all

were integral to shaping London and the world we live in today

The Museum located at West India Quay in east London and opened in 2003, occupies one of the few remaining original grade one listed warehouses, built in 1802 to store sugar, rum and coffee from the West Indies The museum also

Spotlight on ...

of monuments And every house has its own story The town hall, a delightful stroll away, is an iconic building along with the 14thcentury Cloth Hall and the 16th-century Belfry in Brabant late-Gothic style It comes as no surprise, therefore, that it is duly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ename: a mix of ancient history and contemporary experience Ename catapults you back in time and treats you three times to centuries-old heritage Eight hectares of archaeological park with the foundations of the Benedictine abbey, a gentle slope that leads you to the woods ‘Bos t' Ename’ and the beautifully restored church of St Laurence Three surprising sights interwoven into one story The old harbour town has even more to tell

Provincial Heri tage Centre

visit to Huis Beaucarne is definitely not to be missed For generations, the Beaucarne and Fredericq families have cherished this 18th-century manor house The family is passionate about revealing the fun facts of each curiosity Add to this rare collections and archive material from Ename Abbey. After the visit, enjoy an afternoon tea by arrangement

We al so li ke

Tapestri es

The MOU has even more of Oudenaarde’s rich history on display And you can take that literally, as the meandering museum trail takes you to the heyday of the weaving crafts From the 15th to the 18th century.

Mul lem, cas tle vil lage

Oudenaarde is a provincial town with a global reputation Located on the Scheldt’s left bank, with an impressive history Highlights include Oudenaarde’s late-Gothic town hall with its Cloth Hall and famous tapestries, its Beguinage and MOU municipal museum

This gem of the Flemish Ardennes is also a cycling Mecca. For a century now, its undulating roads, cobblestones and hills have played crucial roles in Flanders’ spring classics The Tour of Flanders Centre covers this extensive history from start to finish.

We pi ck a few of our favou rites for gr oups to expl ore:

Oudenaarde is often associated with the heart of the Flemish Ardennes Whether you love nature, culture, delicious regional products or sporting challenges, there’s a startling discovery around every corner. Let’s start with the city’s vibrant heart: the market square A welcoming place, peppered with restaurants, cafes and inviting terraces In the heart of Oudenaarde, you come across buildings in Gothic and Renaissance style, Baroque and Classicism With more than 100 cultural-historical buildings, the city seems like a patchwork

At the push of a button, an old castle rises from the ashes A look behind the scenes of the heritage depot discloses unique revelations Experience the virtual walk in the 13th-century Ename Abbey With an audio guide or by yourself, anything goes You can relax in the artistic heritage foyer, where you can admire Ben Benaouisse's installation ‘Invasif ’ From the second floor, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the archaeological site and the undulating Scheldt landscape

Check the diary for new temporary exhibitions at www oostvlaander en be/ erfgoedcentr um

Hu is B eau car ne, afternoon tea the noble styl e

If you’re group like afternoon tea the time-honoured way, then a

In the midst of the Oudenaarde fields, the pristine castle village of Mullem shines in the yellow lustre of its authentic cottages The early medieval village centre is a protected heritage

Mater

In the undulating landscape of fields between Horebeke and Mater, the Tissenhove Mill is visible from afar. At the top of the 105 metre high plateau, take a moment to admire the beautiful panorama The proud wind fighter is one of Flanders’ oldest windmills

Br ewer y Roman

Roman is the oldest family brewery in Belgium and is famed for its vast range of beers These are all brewed in the traditional way, with attention to craftsmanship and a passion for beer that goes back nearly five centuries... vis it oudenaarde be or contact Vis it Oudenaar de at vi sit@oudenaar de be

Ci ty Wal k, City Hal l and Belfr y